Designed and developed by the state-run Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the pilotless target aircraft is powered by an HAL aero gas turbine engine (PTAE-7) and is deployed as a reusable target system.

"We have delivered the advanced version of the UAV in 15 months against the 24-month of normal manufacturing cycle time," HAL chairman R.K. Tyagi said, handing over the aircraft's documents to BDL production director, Air Vice Marshal P.K. Srivastava.

The company has produced 39 UAVs at its aircraft division here for use by the Indian Air Force (IAF), Indian Navy and DRDO.

"Lakshya simulates enemy aircraft for air-to-air and surface-to-air weapon system operators. It also permits proficiency assessment and improvement of weapon crew in live fire engagement," the statement noted.

HAL is planning to manufacture next generation version of the UAV as Lakshya-2, designed and developed by ADE.